- Today's Word
Serendipitance
[ser-en-dip-i-tnts]
Definition
- (noun) A captivating blend of “serendipity” and “radiance,” this term describes a delightfully unexpected and radiant moment of enchantment that arises by chance, illuminating the senses with its serendipitous splendor and igniting the soul with a sense of awe-inspired wonder.
Example
As she wandered aimlessly through the secluded forest glade, a beam of sunlight pierced the canopy, casting a kaleidoscope of dappled light that danced across the mossy ground, creating a serendipitance of radiant enchantment that left her spellbound by the unexpected beauty of the serendipitous display.
Fun Fact
The concept of “serendipitance” celebrates the idea that certain moments of radiant beauty and enchantment can arise unexpectedly, seemingly by chance, casting a serendipitous spell of wonder upon those fortunate enough to witness them. It suggests a fleeting yet captivating experience that transcends the ordinary, illuminating the senses with its serendipitous splendor and igniting the soul with a sense of awe-inspired delight at the radiant enchantment that can manifest through the delightful whimsy of chance.
(verb) To criticize someone or something severely and publicly, often with harsh or scathing language.
The columnist excoriated the company’s leadership for ignoring repeated safety warnings.
Excoriate comes from the Latin excoriare, meaning “to strip off the skin,” from ex- (“off”) and corium (“hide” or “skin”). While the word originally described physical abrasion, its meaning shifted metaphorically over time to describe verbal attacks so harsh they feel skin-deep, leaving nothing protected.